Top Ten Books Every Yogi Needs to Read

Written by Adriana Lee

Jnana yoga is the yoga of wisdom. It’s the path of learning, education, and study of sacred texts.

There are few things more relaxing than diving into a good book!

Settle into your favorite cozy reading spot, grab a hot cup of tea, and read through the Top Ten Books Every Yogi Needs to Read:

1. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is a must read - not just for yogis, but for anyone that hopes to live mindfully.

1. Be impeccable with your word

2. Don’t take anything personally

3. Don’t make assumptions

4. Always do your best

2. A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle. If it’s good enough for Oprah - it’s good enough for anyone interested in becoming the best version of themselves! A New Earth is written in a traditional narrative that offers personal anecdotes, philosophies, and spiritual guidance. It’s accessible, inspirational, and enlightening. If you’re looking to awaken to your life’s purpose - this is a must read.

3. Siddhartha by Herman Hesse follows the story of a wealthy Brahmin who leaves behind a life of luxury in search of meaning. The story touches on Eastern religions, Western individualism, and Jungian archetypes all while following one man’s search for spiritual fulfillment.

4. The Island by Alduous Huxley. This book was the last book written by Alduous Huxley & although it’s fiction, there are plenty of takeaways. The book is about a utopian society - it’s Huxley’s response to his earlier work, Brave New World.

5. Fierce Medicine by Ana Forrest. Ana Forrest’s life story is painful, powerful, and inspirational all at once. Fierce Medicine gives you tools on how to live fiercely, get out of struggle, and heal yourself.

6. Be Here Now by Ram Dass. Sometimes considered the counterculture bible, Be Here Now by Ram Dass was and is one of the most influential books ever written on spirituality. It’s a powerful guide on yoga, meditation, and living a life of purpose. Consider it a guide book on discovering your true self.

7. The Secret of the Yoga Sutra by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait PHD. This practitioner oriented commentary gives you tools to implement into your life in order to live the sutra. Applying this book and the wisdom of the sutras to your life teaches you to live a life of fulfilment & peace.

8. The Path of the Yoga Sutras by Nicholai Bachman. Bachman breaks down the concepts of The Sutras, written by Panatanjali, & translates them in a way that can be understood in modern times. It’s truly a guide to living your yoga.

9. When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron. Chodron draws on her own life experiences and the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism to offer advice for difficult times. It’s a must read if you’re going through something challenging like grief and loss.

10. Autobiography of a Yogi by Parmahansa Yogananda follows the life story of Parmahansa Yogananda - the Father of Yoga in the West. The book introduces readers to methods of attaining self realization & has touched the hearts of many.